Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
ZIMBABWEANs have been challenged to join the fight against drug and substance abuse, with the National Fitness and Wellness Programme being upscaled as part of efforts to decimate the scourge.
The Fitness and Wellness Festival held at Checheche Growth Point in Chipinge this Thursday emerged as a key platform to send a clear message on the dangers of substance and drug abuse.
Held in a relaxed environment with key participants being youths, the local community was highly appreciative of the initiative.
Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Minister Dr Kirsty Coventry spoke on her ministry’s determination to fight drug and substance abuse through sport and recreation.
“My ministry believes that failure to curb drug abuse can reduce the gains achieved so far. We have ministries and communities participating in this festival as we want to ensure this initiative is well received by all. We will ensure this initiative that has health advantages reaches all corners of the country,” she said.
Guest of honour and Vice President, General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga revealed the government’s renewed commitment to scaling up the fitness and wellness initiative, describing the drug and substance abuse challenge as everyone’s responsibility.
“The festival brings to the fore the importance of youths’ participation in sport and recreation. The objective is to curtail drug abuse and improve public health.
“Reducing the supply chains is critical in fighting the scourge. We are going to take seriously the issue of drug abuse with the deterrent measure being taken to fight the scourge,” said Dr Chiwenga.
The government also reiterated its hardline stance on drug and substance abuse.
The three-day Fitness and Wellness Programme saw various teams playing ball games among other activities that improve physical and mental health, with the initiative set to be taken to other parts of the country.
